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UBC study: Rats pose health threat to poultry and humans

A UBC study found that rats can absorb disease agents from their environment and spread them, posing a significant health threat to both poultry and humans. The researchers discovered avian pathogenic E. coli in the feces of farm rats, with over one quarter carrying multidrug-resistant strains.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateJan 14, 2016

Researchers work on lowering greenhouse gas emissions from poultry houses

A research team led by Hong Li at the University of Delaware has found that adding alum to poultry litter can significantly reduce ammonia and greenhouse gas concentrations. This innovation helps control nutrient emissions, conserves energy, and improves animal welfare, making agriculture more sustainable.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 12, 2016

Backyard chickens harbor greater diversity of ticks, mites, and lice than farm-raised chickens

A study by University of California, Riverside scientists reveals that backyard chickens have a higher diversity of ectoparasites, including six species of lice, the northern fowl mite, scaly leg mite, and chicken red mite. This finding suggests that the benefits of backyard chicken keeping may come with an itchy price.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 11, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Backyard chickens harbor many parasites

Researchers found ectoparasites on 80% of backyard chicken flocks, with lice being the most common and abundant. The study highlights the need for parasite prevention measures in backyard chicken-keeping.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 11, 2016

Fearful chickens and worried mice: Shared genetic influences on anxiety

A new study identifies genetic influences on anxiety in chickens that may also apply to mice and humans. The research found that genes linked to anxiety in chickens were associated with similar behaviors in mice, while some were connected to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in large human studies.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJan 5, 2016

Project to develop new poultry vaccines awarded £5.7 million

A £5.7 million grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) will support the development of cheap and effective vaccines for poultry. The project aims to reduce infections in humans and minimize antibiotics in the food chain, with potential applications for cattle, sheep, and goats.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateDec 11, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Chicken study reveals evolution can happen much faster than thought

A new study of chickens overturns the popular assumption that evolution is only visible over long time scales. The researchers found two mutations in the mitochondrial genomes of the birds in just 50 years, revealing a rate of evolution that is 15 times faster than previously believed.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 27, 2015

How chickens walk holds clues to how they spread disease

A mathematical model of chicken walk patterns may help farmers predict and prevent the spread of disease in their flocks. By analyzing patterns of movement, researchers can identify high-risk areas and develop strategies to minimize losses.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMathematical Methods in the Applied Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Covering the bases with cover crops

Researchers found that mixtures of cereal rye and hairy vetch can effectively control weeds and conserve soil moisture. Adding poultry litter increased decomposition and nitrogen release when the cover crop contained at least 50% cereal rye.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 30, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Southern diet could raise your risk of heart attack

A recent study published in Circulation found that a traditional Southern-style diet is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 adults and found that those who consumed foods conforming to the Southern dietary pattern had a 56% higher risk of heart disease compared to those who ate it ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 10, 2015

Some vaccines support evolution of more-virulent viruses

A new study published in PLOS Biology found that imperfect vaccines can promote the evolution of nastier viral strains, increasing the risk of severe illness among unvaccinated individuals. The research highlights the importance of perfect vaccines in preventing not only disease but also transmission.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 27, 2015

Bossy cock takes the lead vocal of cock-a-doodle-do

A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that roosters follow a systematic rule based on social ranking to determine the order of crowing. Dominant birds take priority to announce the break of dawn, while subordinate birds wait patiently for their turn.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 23, 2015

Want to be seen as more loving and a better cook?

A recent Cornell Food & Brand Lab study found that serving vegetables at dinner increases the perception of being a better cook and a more loving parent. Serving veggies even if not liked can make the meal tastier, according to lead author Brian Wansink.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·DateJun 25, 2015
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Study: DASH diet can substitute lean pork for chicken or fish to reduce blood pressure

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a DASH-style diet with lean, unprocessed pork as the primary protein source reduced blood pressure and had similar effects when chicken or fish was used instead. The study included 19 participants with elevated high blood pressure and demonstrated the versat...

SourcePurdue University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 11, 2015

Vaccines developed for H5N1, H7N9 avian influenza strains

Researchers developed vaccines for H5N1 and H7N9 avian influenza strains using a recombinant virus approach, protecting chickens against both strains. This method may lead to rapid vaccine development for emerging strains and new influenza vaccines for pigs, sheep, and other livestock.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 22, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Percentage of children eating fast food on a given day drops

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that the percentage of children eating fast food on a given day dropped from 38.8% to 32.6% between 2003-2004 and 2009-2010, respectively. Calorie intake from burger and chicken restaurants also decreased, while Mexican and sandwich restaurants remained constant.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 30, 2015

How did the chicken cross the sea?

A team of researchers from Michigan State University studied the feral chicken population on the Hawaiian island of Kauai to understand their genetic origins. The study found evidence of hybridization between ancient Red Junglefowl and domestic chickens, suggesting that the population may have originated from interbreeding.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 26, 2015

UC Davis leads new effort in functional annotation of animal genomes

The UC Davis project, part of the FAANG Initiative, focuses on functional genomics of chicken, cow, and pig genomes to better understand gene regulation and complex traits. This research aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability by identifying key genetic elements influencing animal development and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateFeb 24, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Tracing evolution of chicken flu virus yields insight into origins of deadly H7N9 strain

A study found that changes in the H9N2 flu virus in chickens may have contributed to the creation of the H7N9 avian virus, which has caused outbreaks and deaths since 2013. The research suggests tracking genetic diversity of H9N2 on poultry farms could provide an early warning of emerging viruses with pandemic potential.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2014

Chickens and turkeys 'closer to dinosaur ancestors' than other birds

A recent study by the University of Kent found that chickens and turkeys have undergone fewer gross genomic changes compared to their ancient avian ancestor, a feathered dinosaur. The research reveals that birds arrived at their incredible biodiversity through a complex process involving tiny microchromosomes.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalBMC Genomics·DateDec 11, 2014
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

How Campylobacter exploits chicken 'juice' highlights need for hygiene

A study found Campylobacter bacteria attach to surfaces and form biofilms when exposed to chicken 'juice'. Cleaning surfaces effectively can help reduce the incidence of Campylobacter, a leading cause of food poisoning in the UK. The research also aims to minimize infected chicken on supermarket shelves.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateNov 13, 2014

Flu at the zoo and other disasters: Experts help animal exhibitors prepare for the worst

Zoos and aquariums are vulnerable to disasters, but experts say preparedness training and planning can minimize risks. The University of Illinois veterinarian Yvette Johnson-Walker brings emergency training to accredited institutions, focusing on scenarios like avian influenza and hurricane floodwaters.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management·DateOct 23, 2014

Fine-tuning of bitter taste receptors may be key to animal survival

Researchers found that chickens have a limited number of bitter taste receptors but can compensate with a wider tuning range. Frogs, on the other hand, have more receptors and a mix of broad and narrow tuning capabilities. This diversity may be an adaptation to their environment, which includes both land and water.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 8, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How hummingbirds evolved to detect sweetness

Researchers discovered how hummingbirds detected sugar by analyzing their taste receptors, which expanded to respond to carbohydrates. The study revealed that a single mutation drove behavior changes in the birds.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

The millennial tofu surprise

A new study reveals that Millennials are eating tofu because it's convenient and filling, rather than for its nutritional value. The research found that highlighting the ease of cooking and taste can be a more effective way to convince others to try tofu.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEating Behaviors·DateJul 10, 2014

Hot Pot with chicken causes campylobacter infections in Switzerland

In Switzerland, campylobacteriosis case numbers have increased, particularly around Christmas and New Year. A study found that consuming meat fondue increases the risk of infection by four times, while proper hygiene practices can reduce the risk by up to five.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 3, 2014
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Foodborne bacteria not as harmless to chickens as previously thought

Researchers discovered that foodborne pathogen Campylobacter jejuni can cause problems in chickens' gut and damage their feet and legs when they walk through contaminated excrement. The bacteria's impact varied among breeds, with one showing significant damage to the gut and developing diarrhea.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJul 2, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Processed red meat linked to higher risk of heart failure, death in men

A study published by the American Heart Association found that eating moderate amounts of processed red meat increases the risk of incidence and death from heart failure in men. The study, which included over 37,000 men aged 45-79, found that those who consumed the most processed red meat had a 28% higher risk of heart failure compared...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 12, 2014

The new face of tofu

A new Cornell study reveals that tofu lovers perceive it as a convenient and filling source of light protein. However, non-users had misconceptions about its cost and cooking difficulties. Correcting these misconceptions through price information, simple recipes, and 'cooks like chicken' messaging increased the likelihood of purchase.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEating Behaviors·DateMay 6, 2014
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Antimicrobial edible films inhibit pathogens in meat

Researchers developed antimicrobial edible films using pullulan and essential oils, which significantly inhibit bacterial pathogens in meat and poultry. The films provide immediate and sustained kill of bacteria, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateMay 1, 2014

Biting vs. chewing

A Cornell study published in Eating Behaviors found that children aged 6-10 who ate whole foods like drumsticks and apples were twice as likely to disobey adults and exhibit aggressive behavior compared to those eating cut-up foods. The researchers suggest cutting food can help reduce rowdy behavior at mealtime.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEating Behaviors·DateApr 22, 2014

Ancient DNA offers clues to how barnyard chickens came to be

A study analyzing ancient chicken DNA found that traits like yellow skin only became widespread in the last 500 years, contradicting previous assumptions about domestication. Researchers compared DNA from 81 ancient chickens to those of modern chickens, revealing significant genetic differences.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2014

Chickens to chili peppers

Researchers have found a genetic connection between chickens and chili peppers, suggesting that the latter were domesticated around the same time as humans. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used DNA analysis to reveal that yellow-skinned chickens became common only about 500 years ago.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2014

Kitchens are a source of multi-drug resistant bacteria

A study found that cutting boards and gloves used in handling raw poultry can transmit ESBL-producing E. coli bacteria, highlighting the importance of hand hygiene. Researchers collected samples from hospital and private kitchens, finding higher contamination rates on hospital cutting boards and gloves.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

ASU scientist Roy Curtiss receives Lifetime Achievement Award from ASM

Roy Curtiss, a pioneer in recombinant DNA era gene cloning and novel bacterial pathogenesis research, has made significant contributions to developing attenuated Salmonella-based vaccines. His work has improved human health through combating infectious diseases, particularly pneumonia, tuberculosis, and influenza.

SourceArizona State University·DateMar 25, 2014

A 'chicken from hell' dinosaur

The newly discovered Anzu wyliei was an omnivore that roamed the Dakotas with T. rex 66 million years ago and stood over 10 feet tall. The dinosaur's fossil discovery sheds light on a previously limited category of oviraptorosaur theropod dinosaurs.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 19, 2014

Study fingers chickens, quail, in spread of H7N9 influenza virus

Quail and chickens are likely sources of infection for the H7N9 influenza virus, according to a study published in the Journal of Virology. The research found that quail efficiently transmitted the virus, while other poultry species were resistant or did not become infected.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 18, 2014
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Chicken bones tell true story of Pacific migration

Researchers have identified genetic markers of original Polynesian chickens, tracing early movements and trading patterns across the Pacific. The study also found that these lineages survived on isolated Pacific islands despite European introduction.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2014

Hospital food safety measures reduce risk of contaminated hospital food

A new study found that more than 80% of raw chicken used in hospitals was contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant risk to patients and staff. However, robust food safety measures taken by hospital kitchen staff were able to prevent the spread of these pathogens.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 7, 2014

In the eye of a chicken, a new state of matter comes into view

A team of researchers from Princeton University and Washington University in St. Louis has identified a new state of matter known as disordered hyperuniformity in the eyes of chickens. This arrangement of cells in the eye exhibits properties of both crystal and liquid states, allowing for unique optical properties

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPhysical Review E·DateFeb 24, 2014

Fight or flight and the evolution of pain

Researchers analyzed pain response in chickens, discovering that heat stimulation activates TRPA1 receptors similar to cold-blooded animals. Methyl anthranilate, a repellent chemical for birds, also activates chicken TRPA1, highlighting its functional evolution and diversification among vertebrate species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 7, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Healthier Happy Meals

Researchers analyzed transaction data from 30 McDonald's restaurants to find that reducing the size of French fries decreased the calorie count in children's meals by 104 calories. Children mostly stuck with their original entrée choice, but opted for lower-calorie beverages like milk instead of soda.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalObesity·DateDec 19, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Poultry probiotic's coat clues to ability to battle bugs

Researchers have characterised the coat of a potential poultry probiotic, Lactobacillus johnsonii, which consists of two exopolysaccharides that play important roles in colonisation and adhesion. The unique EPS structures may help the bacteria compete with pathogenic C. perfringens.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 18, 2013

Taiwan scientists report first case of new bird flu virus in humans

Researchers identified a novel avian-origin H6N1 virus that closely resembles chicken H6N1 viruses circulating in Taiwan since 1972. The virus has a mutation that could increase its preference for human SAα-2,6 receptors, making it more infectious to humans.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateNov 13, 2013